USC and Techstars Accelerator
USC and Techstars Accelerator is an incredible opportunity for innovative pre-seed and seed stage companies to accelerate their growth rate, make a quantum leap in their business, and tap into the vibrant USC ecosystem. The 13 week in-person on-campus accelerator will welcome its second cohort in March of 2026. Companies will be paired with mentors both in and out of the university, and be able to tap into the full resources of a major research institution. The accelerator is open to startups in all industries, but with a particular focus on bioscience, engineering, AI, healthcare, deep tech, and media technology. The accelerator is open to companies with at least one founding team member affiliated with USC: students, alumni, faculty, and staff. (Keck Medicine and CHLA are also eligible.)
Los Angeles, United States
2026 March
In Person Program
Aug 25th, 2025
Applications Open
Nov 19th, 2025
Final Deadline
Mar 9th, 2026
Accelerator Starts
Jun 4th, 2026
Demo Day
About the Program
Eligible companies will include a USC-affiliated founding member, including a USC student, alumni, faculty or staff.
The program takes place from March 9th through June 4th, 2026 at the University Park Campus. Companies will be provided with office space for the duration of the program.
We invest financially and operationally: In addition to a $220,000 equity investment and over $2m worth of perks, accelerator participants receive hands-on mentorship, curated entrepreneurial content and programming, and access to Techstars’ global network of mentors, investors, alumni, and corporate partners.
Founders will participate in a combination of workshops, masterclasses, speaker series, and pitch practice. During regular 1:1 mentor sessions, they’ll refine their product and business strategy, and gain valuable introductions to critical business partners. The thirteen-week program culminates in Demo Day, where they’ll pitch directly to enthusiastic investors.
Applications will be accepted through November 19th, 2025 with 10 participating companies selected by January 2026.
Visit Inside an Accelerator to learn all our best tips, tricks, insights, and explanations about what a Techstars accelerator is and how to apply.
For more information about what is included in the application, please visit https://www.techstars.com/application-preview
Partner
The Team
Gabriel Schlumberger
Managing Director
Allison Kitain
Senior Program Manager
Events
Stories
USC and Techstars Programs Overview
The USC and Techstars Digital Economy Program includes:
Startup Weekend: a three-day event designed to ignite ideas and build startup communities
Ecosystem Development Lab: a training program for community leaders to strengthen the foundation of their entrepreneurial ecosystem
University Catalyst: a 10-week, pre-accelerator program for idea and early-stage startups
Digital Economy Accelerator: a 13-week, intensive program designed for startups to scale their vision into thriving businesses